College of Eastern Utah soccer makes transition from spring play to reality

The Eagles will extend their athletic talent to the soccer field this season with a new mens club team. And, if all goes well in the upcoming years, coach Ron Dadgari hopes to see the club upgraded to a fully-supported school sport team.

Dadgari, a native of Iran, brings an extensive amount of playing and coaching experience to the team. For a couple of years, Dadgari played for Iran's professional club before moving to the states. Once in Salt Lake City, he guided youth programs for several years.

He now hopes that his excitement for the sport will rub off in Carbon County.

"I thought it was something I could give to the community," he commented.

Interest in forming a team began early this year when several players participated in spring season competition. The young men approached CEU athletic director Dave Paur to request that the school field a fall team.

With the help of local businesses and fund raising, the team will begin their 2004 season on Sept. 17 against Dixie. Dadgari said without local support and a boost from the school, the team would not have been realized.

"We're not really alone. Local businesses and the college have been pretty kind in helping us," he pointed out.

In addition to Dixie, CEU's schedule will include Snow College, Southern Utah University, Weber, Brigham Young University of Idaho and other regional club teams.

Dadgari said the addition of soccer to CEU activities will give Carbon County youth more options. He adds his hopes that Carbon High will serve as a good feeder program for the club team.

"I think sports are the answer for the kids here because there's not a lot to do," he stated.

The team will host its first home game on Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. against Weber. Dadgari encourages the community to come out and support the team, which he expects to keep right up with the more experienced schools.

"I think we are in that level, otherwise they wouldn't have invited us," he concluded.